The Supreme Court has upheld relief for DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin in connection with his controversial comments on Sanatan Dharma. The court extended his exemption from appearing in lower courts until February and granted four weeks for all parties to submit their replies. A bench led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna will next hear the case in February.
Court Questions Stalin’s Legal Approach
In an earlier hearing, the court advised Stalin’s lawyer, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, to file a case under Section 406 of the CrPC instead of invoking Article 32 of the Constitution. Following this, Stalin submitted a revised petition, seeking the transfer of FIRs registered in various states, including Maharashtra, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Jammu and Kashmir.
Singhvi argued that multiple FIRs have burdened Stalin, prompting him to request their consolidation. The court, however, emphasized that as a minister, Stalin must recognize the consequences of his statements.
Background on the Sanatan Dharma Remarks
In September, Udhayanidhi Stalin compared Sanatan Dharma to diseases like malaria and dengue. His statement triggered widespread political outrage and led to criminal complaints across six states.
The court also commented on Stalin’s alleged misuse of Articles 19(1)(A) and 25 of the Constitution. Singhvi clarified that he does not justify Stalin’s remarks but seeks legal protection against the multiple cases filed.
The case remains under judicial scrutiny, with further developments expected in February.
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